Discuss The Americans
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Phillip vs. Elizabeth
posted by charlestontracySTAFFMOD on June 1, 2017 at 12:21 AM
So I'm reading some of the posts on here regarding sympathizing with the two leads. It's definitely hard to feel anything for them because they are killers and not just any killer they are cold blooded killers!! There have been many gruesome killings that I literally turn away from on this show. Seriously, I'll just pick up my phone and wait for the scene to end. I just cannot get into watching violent acts. I wish writers would recognize viewers don't need to see everything, just imply it, I'll get it!
So here's my take on this. I'm not sure what goes on with the writers, but at times I feel as though Phillip not only has a conscience, but that he also really likes America. Remember when he bought the Camaro? He was so happy, and I remember he even said something along the lines of "our life isn't really that bad here..." I think if he knew he could get away with it, he'd turn his back on Russia. I see it in small things he does and says, but mostly I see his compassion through his relationship with Paige. You can tell he cares for her and doesn't want her to follow in his footsteps. I remember him being so upset that Russia wanted to bring in their kids.
Elizabeth on the other hand, she's just heartless, calculating, and a horrible mom. She's portrayed as being raised without much, and taking care of everything as a little girl. So, she's tough as nails, and loves her motherland. She also doesn't seem to have a strong relationship with her daughter. Although, now it seems she's into her since she can train her to be a spy. Ugh.
My point is, I think we are supposed to feel a emotional connection towards Phillip if we are supposed to feel anything for either of them. I should also let everyone know, I've only watched like 5 episodes this season, so something may change my mind here.
I personally wish the writers would work more on showcasing Phillip's struggle about being a spy. How he feels about Russia, and his daughter becoming a spy. I hate they spend so much time deviating from that character development and focus on these elaborate spy scenarios that go away so quickly. Or those boring meetings with Gabriel! Yawn! And they bring characters on the show without providing any background. It's so annoying.
My hope is that Phillip gets Martha from Russia to be with her (cause I think he really cares for her deeply) keeps the kids, stays in America, and sends Elizabeth back to Russia!
Reply by Canuck21
on June 2, 2017 at 1:37 AM
Phillip cares for Martha like he cares for Stan. I never thought there was anything more than that from his part. He clearly loves Elizabeth despite all the years she was pushing him away. At least now she loves him. I predict that Elizabeth will die for the sake of Phillip's freedom. He will return to Russia and finally meet with his Russian son.
Reply by charlestontracy
on June 2, 2017 at 4:33 PM
Interesting theory for sure! But we definitely have a different view of Elizabeth. I could never see her dying for anyone that is not as passionate as she is about her motherland. And as far as Martha goes, I just always thought there was a lot of emphasis on her and Phillip's moments between the sheets so to speak. It really is not necessary for creators to put such a focus on it, it can be implied. I felt like they wanted to show the passion they had for each other. Perhaps I am just reading too much into it, but I just felt like there was more between the two of them. I will say I would not hate it though if you theory is what plays out because Elizabeth is not my favorite that's for sure.
Reply by lexiever-1
on June 3, 2017 at 3:05 AM
I honestly feel an emotional connection to both characters. Many people see Elizabeth and cold, but I have always viewed her in the way typical male characters tend to be written. She just so happens to be a female who cares a lot about her job which is something we don't see often. We often always have the female characters portrayed highly emotional. I feel bad for what happened to Martha but her and Phillip together?, she doesn't know Phillip at all. As another poster said, I see Phillip caring for Martha in the same way he cares for Stan. I do hope Martha adopts that little girl and finds happenings in being a mom. Her and Philip together would be too odd.
Reply by CamC
on June 10, 2017 at 1:35 AM
I don't like Elizabeth but I wish she was on our side. She doesn't stop. A great spy. After everything she and her mother have gone through, AND that she and Phillip are concerned that making a simple mistake might lead to their executions by their Motherland, why would she want her daughter to be part of that life? She is tortured by men when she is spying as a prostitute, her country wouldn't give permission for her to see her mother, she was raped by a superior while in training. Her 'husband' has sex with other women, even married one. Elizabeth worships a sick system. The roles are somewhat reversed between Elizabeth and Philip. He'd defect in a minute to save one of their kids from the govt in Moscow, while she thinks it's an honor.
Reply by Lemon Juice
on June 20, 2017 at 11:37 AM
That's funny! My wife thinks Phillip is really in love with Martha but I agree with Canuck21: I think he just cares for her as he would any other person and is sorry he's put her in the position she's in. I wonder if the writers tried to create ambiguity on purpose of if it's just occurred. The show's had some raw sex and violence scenes, but I think those scenes have added to the intense and suspenseful air throughout the whole series.